Sherlock Holmes. The name synonymous with intelligence bearing a Victorian aura, reflecting upon criminal masterminds with sophistication, quick-wit and sharp deduction, is re-introduced to us by Guy Ritchie, the man behind ’ Lock, Stock & two smoking barrels’, ’Snatch’ & ’Rock n Rolla’. He might not be the most obvious choice for such an undertaking but aided by an entertaining Robert Downey Jr., Ritchie pulls this one off the Lord’s hat. For all the Jeremy Brett fans who did not see Conan Doyle’s ’Holmes’ in anyone but that sophisticated, sharp, often loud and over-reacting personification with the aura of higher intelligence, Downey Jr. is here to re-define all those semblances while capturing Doyle’s original character in rawness that is entertaining.
In a spectacularly re-created London of the 1890’s, an utterly insolent and messed-up Holmes is drinking medical potions to keep himself up, laying in his room for days without care and experimenting trials on a poor dog while being rudely blunt with Dr. Watson’s girlfriend at an important dinner. This eccentric detective is a departure from the suave icon of yesteryears. But his true self is seen in his analytical thinking that helps him deduct the smallest, often unthinkable details around him. The calculating bare-knuckle boxer is a testament of the new Holmes, courtesy Guy Ritchie with the slow-mo capturing his distinctive style.
Watson is displeased with Holmes’ behavior but he cannot keep himself from being the able aid of the renowned detective. This passive, dismissive but are kicking relationship is one of the highlights of the movie. The chemistry between the actors is great to watch and it sets the tone for this being an entertaining franchise.
The duo intervene an act of sacrifice performed by the satanic Lord Blackwood (Mark Strong) resulting in his capture which only begins a twisted plot that as threatened, will change the very fabric of time. After his execution, the Lord emerges from the dead, bringing dread to the world and a renewed energy into Holmes who was restless so far for a new case. What follows is an action packed adventure that brings the investigation to the Parliament where the sinister device of Lord Blackwood is set to wipe out the existing government. With some additional help from Irene (Rachel Adams), Holmes while refraining from an obvious distraction, uncovers the Lord’s plot in a climax atop the under-construction draw bridge. In a conniving manner, Ritchie leaves the story open ended with the foul smell of the greatest nemesis of our detective lurking in the case that will soon be re-opened.
Eddie Marson as Officer Lestrade is perfect for his part while Mark Strong as Blackwood makes a sinister villian. Although, one would’ve hoped to see more of him. Jude Law adds composure to the entertaining pair while his chemistry with Downey Jr. is a treat to watch. Robert Downey Jr. may be the only actor to play two convincing action heroes with equal finesse and excellence. We can’t get enough of his misbehavior and reckless acts till he gets everything right and emerges as the hero in his movies. Downey adds a refreshing twist to Holmes’ character that is a departure from conventional versions but is distinct and Victorian just the same.
Guy Ritchie captures London in dazzling fashion with construction omnipresent in the city’s boom time. While he churns out enough explosions and raw action, his focus remains on a fine script that gives ample opportunity for Holmes to not miss any opportunity that can close his case. The one striking aspect of the film that makes it a winner is that throughout its 2hr30min duration, it incessantly entertains with every unfolding scene. Audacious as he was while experimenting with Holmes’ character, he has succeeded in establishing all characters of this franchise while leaving scope for witty humor and deeper bonding between them in the future.
Sherlock Holmes is re-invented for the new generation with the same essence of the legendary character authored by Arthur Conan Doyle and Robert Downey Jr. packs enough punch with Ritchie’s entertainment to make it elementary for you to not miss this opportunity.